Research
Dr. Maxwell T. Hincke's research focuses on biomineralization, extracellular matrix biology, avian reproductive biology, and the development of natural biomaterials for biomedical and health applications.
A major theme of his research is the molecular and cellular control of avian eggshell formation. The eggshell is a remarkable model of rapid calcitic biomineralization, combining precisely controlled mineral deposition with exceptional mechanical performance. His laboratory investigates how shell-gland cells, ion transport pathways, extracellular-matrix proteins and mineral precursors interact to regulate crystal nucleation, growth, shell structure and strength.
Current research integrates proteomics, transcriptomics, advanced imaging and materials characterization to develop a comprehensive molecular model linking shell-gland cell function to extracellular matrix assembly and mineralization.
A second research theme examines the innate defence systems of the avian egg. The eggshell, cuticle, shell membranes and egg proteins provide complementary physical and molecular barriers against microbial contamination while supporting embryonic development.
Dr. Hincke's group also investigates the sustainable valorization of eggshell and eggshell membrane, abundant co-products of the egg industry. Research includes development of eggshell-derived biomaterials for bone repair and regenerative medicine, scalable processing of eggshell membrane, and characterization of bioactive proteins and peptides with potential antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and gut-health applications.
His interdisciplinary research bridges cell and molecular biology, biomineralization, food science, biomaterials and regenerative medicine and involves collaborations in Canada and internationally.
Research Themes
- Molecular mechanisms of calcitic biomineralization
- Avian eggshell formation and extracellular matrix biology
- Proteomics and transcriptomics of the shell gland
- Eggshell structure and mechanical properties
- Avian egg innate immunity
- Eggshell membrane and bioactive peptides
- Sustainable biomaterials and bioproduct development
- Bone repair and regenerative medicine
- Gut-health applications of natural bioactives
Publications
Dr. Hincke has published extensively on eggshell biomineralization, egg innate immunity, extracellular matrix biology and biomaterials, including foundational work on eggshell structure and mineralization as well as recent translational studies.
